High-end restaurant planned for "eyesore" Penwortham supermarket site

An “eyesore” former supermarket building could soon be transformed into a restaurant and shops.

The former Booths building in Liverpool Road, Penwortham, has been empty and for sale since 2010.

Now applicant Warren Ward has tabled plans with South Ribble Council to turn the plot into a “high class” restaurant called The Lounge, as well as two smaller retail units.

In a document issued to planning chiefs, the applicant states the restaurant will create up to 15 jobs.

It states: “The proposed scheme will improve the street scene along Liverpool Road, with a much-improved new restaurant and shop frontage.

“With grey aluminium bi-folding doors that can open during the summer months and a new zinc canopy with cedar cladding will create a fresh and contemporary look that is much needed along this section of Liverpool Road and the local shopping centre.”

Penwortham Councillor David Howarth said: “It’s good news, this has been standing empty as an eyesore for many years.

“I thought someone would snap it up when Tesco opened in Cop Lane, but now that’s fallen through, I was worried about it not getting the same footfall.

“Hopefully the restaurant will open, but clearly we need someone to take up the retail units as well.”

All deliveries would be made from the rear of the building, where there is a private car park.